When it comes to cruising in the Middle East, clearly some things will never change. On Monday, Holland America directed the Noordam past a scheduled stop in Haifa, Israel. On Tuesday, the same thing in Jerusalem.
Cruising to Middle Eastern countries is as predictable as talks between the Palestinians and Israelis…as what Syria might do next…as which country is the newest hotspot for Al Qaeda.
This week, it was Syria.
"As a result of the uncertainties of possible military action against Syria and the potential of resulting Syrian attacks on Israel, we have cancelled the scheduled calls of ms Noordam to Israel."
That was not a statement from a high-ranking diplomat. That was a statement from a Holland America spokesperson.
The cruise line added two stops in Turkey and one in Greece to make up for missing Israel. It also refunded shore excursions and gave passengers a 15 per cent credit for a future cruise. None of that makes up for missing a chance to see the Holy Land.
The Noordam's next visit to Haifa is scheduled for October 25.
But as always, who knows?
Carnival Conquest
8 nights
November 16, 2013
San Juan, St. Kitts, Dominica, St. Maarten, Antigua, Grand Turk, Miami
Inside: $359
Cost per day: $44
www.carnival.com